Disappointed in University of Vermont’s ban on bottled water

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AT COCA-COLA we support efforts to promote sustainability and protect our planet, and we’re disappointed by the bottled water ban at the University of Vermont (“
Kicking the bottled water habit,” Editorial, Dec. 12). While we praise UVM’s efforts to make drinking water available throughout its campus, people should be able to make their own decisions about how they drink it — from a bottle of Dasani, a water fountain, or a refillable bottle.

Coca-Cola has committed to investing in packaging designs that use less material, incorporate more renewable resources, and are 100 percent recyclable. PlantBottle packaging for Dasani is made with up to 30 percent plant-based materials and represents a key step toward recognizing this goal.

The sale of products like Dasani on college campuses creates important funding to support student programming, scholarships, and athletics. Also, Coca-Cola beverages are produced locally, which means more jobs and a stronger local economy. UVM currently has a widespread bottle and can recycling system in place, and we applaud their success. Eliminating a product altogether is not the only answer when it comes to being more environmentally responsible. Partnership, education, and innovation can create solutions that help determine a way forward without restricting choice or removing a key revenue stream.